Machine Learning Engineer salaries in San Diego range from $152,250 to $507,500 in 2026. The mid-level median is $250,125, which is 45% above the national average.
Junior (0-2 yrs)
$152,250 – $203,000
Median: $177,625 · per year
Mid-Level (3-5 yrs)
$210,250 – $290,000
Median: $250,125 · per year
Senior (6+ yrs)
$304,500 – $507,500
Median: $406,000 · per year
Estimate your earning potential based on role, location, and experience.
Estimated Machine Learning Engineer Salary in San Diego, CA
Estimated†Median: $328,063 per year (adjusted for San Diego cost of living)
Junior
$177,625
0-2 yrs
Mid-Level
$250,125
3-5 yrs
Senior
$406,000
6+ yrs
| City | Mid-Level Median | Cost of Living |
|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA | $250,125 | very high |
| New York, NY | $250,125 | very high |
| Los Angeles, CA | $250,125 | very high |
| Chicago, IL | $207,000 | high |
| Houston, TX | $172,500 | moderate |
| Phoenix, AZ | $172,500 | moderate |